The evolution of data center design has shifted from the traditional solution: expanding floor space to accommodate increased IT needs, to smaller component-based solutions. The two main component-based options are container-based and prefabricated modular (PFM) solutions.

Container-based data centers were the first generation of PFM data centers. Typically built using an ISO (International Standards Organization) intermodal-shipping container, they are limited by their size and construction. In comparison, PFM data centers are completely customizable to meet the needs of any organization.

The two designs share many similarities such as ease of deployment, the ability to add computing power on demand, energy efficient operation and some degree of prefabrication, but there are also many differences.

Comparison of the two models:

Container-based Data Centers

PFM Data Centers

Easily Deployed

x

x

Ability to Add Computing Power on Demand

x

x

Energy Efficient

x

x

Custom-built

x

Cohesive Design

x

Ample Space for Staff

x

Customizable to Fit Various Technologies

x

Upgradeable

x

Highly Secure

x

Satisfy Mission Critical IT Needs

x

Prefabricated modular data centers are the best solution for growing companies. They take the best solutions for design, security and efficiency and bundle them together into an easily deployable package. The scalability of PFM data centers allows organizations to rapidly expand to match changing IT requirements. Organizations benefit by only paying for the amount of space they need when they need it, preserving capital expenditure, maximizing efficiency and resulting in a lower total cost of ownership.